Tinubu Accused of Coercion: Ex-Commissioner Claims Imposition of Resolution on Fubara

Chief David Briggs, a member of the Rivers Elders’ Forum and former Commissioner for Works in Rivers State, has raised serious allegations against President Bola Tinubu, claiming that Tinubu threatened Governor Siminalayi Fubara and imposed a resolution on him during a crisis resolution meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Briggs, who attended the meeting, asserted that the governor signed the resolution under duress, contending that Tinubu issued threats before handing the document to Fubara. The meeting, attended by key stakeholders including former Governor Peter Odili and immediate past Governor Nyesom Wike, aimed to address the political crisis in Rivers State.

President Tinubu directed the withdrawal of all legal actions initiated by Governor Fubara and his team in relation to the political turmoil. In a subsequent interview in Port Harcourt, Briggs disclosed, “Mr President walked in with a written resolution, declared it a presidential proclamation, and emphasized the consequences for those opposing it.”

Briggs further revealed that Tinubu, despite drafting the resolution, refused to read it and delegated the task to Dr Peter Odili. He highlighted the undemocratic nature of the President’s approach, describing it as a subtle but energetic threat.

During the meeting, former Attorney-General of the State and Justice Commissioner, Adokiye Amiesimaka, questioned the President about the actions of defected Assembly members. The President’s response, as recounted by Briggs, emphasized his leadership within the APC, stating, “I’m the leader of the APC in Nigeria. And you are telling me when babies are born into my family I should ask them to go.”

Briggs suggested that there might be plans to facilitate Fubara’s defection to the APC, praising the governor for his maturity during the meeting. He stated, “What Tinubu did was to establish his own party interest while arbitrating peace in Rivers State.”

In conclusion, Briggs commended Governor Fubara for displaying intelligence and humility, navigating a complex political situation. He underscored the significance of the President’s order and the governor’s response, acknowledging the complexities within which they operated.